Expert Foot Fracture Treatment in Morgantown, WV
Advanced Ankle and Foot Fracture Surgery
A broken bone in the foot or ankle is a serious injury that can happen in an instant, from a misstep on the stairs to a complex sports injury. These fractures can cause significant pain, swelling, and an inability to walk, dramatically disrupting your life. While some minor fractures can heal with a cast or boot, more severe breaks often require surgery to ensure the bones heal in the correct position. Foot and ankle fracture surgery is designed to properly align and stabilize the broken bones, which is critical for restoring function and preventing long-term problems like pain, arthritis, and deformity.
Since 1977, Mountainstate Orthopedic Associates (MOA) has provided expert orthopedic care to the communities of Morgantown and North Central West Virginia. Our fellowship-trained orthopedic foot and ankle specialists have extensive experience in treating the full spectrum of foot and ankle fractures. We are committed to building personal relationships with our patients and providing compassionate, state-of-the-art care. Performing complex fracture surgery at the Mon Health Medical Center, we use advanced techniques and technology to ensure the best possible outcome for your recovery.
If you have sustained a foot or ankle injury, getting prompt, expert care is crucial. At MOA, we pride ourselves on offering faster appointment times than many large hospital systems. Contact us today to schedule your evaluation.
What is foot and ankle fracture surgery, and how does it work?
Foot and ankle fracture surgery, also known as open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF), is a procedure used to repair broken bones. "Open reduction" means the surgeon makes an incision to directly access and realign the bone fragments into their normal anatomical position. "Internal fixation" refers to the method used to hold the bones in place while they heal. Your surgeon will use specialized hardware, such as metal plates, screws, pins, or wires, which act as an internal cast to stabilize the fracture. This internal hardware keeps the bones from moving out of place, promoting proper healing. The goal of the surgery is to restore the stability and alignment of the foot or ankle, allowing for a more predictable recovery and a better long-term functional outcome.
What are the symptoms of a foot or ankle fracture?
The symptoms of a foot or ankle fracture are often immediate and intense. You may hear or feel a "crack" or "snap" at the time of injury. The most common symptoms include severe pain, significant swelling, and bruising that can develop quickly. You will likely have difficulty, or a complete inability, to put weight on the injured foot. In some cases, there may be a visible deformity where the bones are clearly out of place. Tenderness to the touch over a specific bony area is another key indicator. It's important to note that a severe sprain can have similar symptoms, so a thorough evaluation by an orthopedic specialist, including X-rays, is essential for an accurate diagnosis.
How do I know if I need surgery for a foot or ankle fracture?
The decision to perform surgery on a foot or ankle fracture depends on the severity and type of break. Many simple, non-displaced fractures (where the bone pieces remain aligned) can be treated successfully with a cast, splint, or walking boot. However, surgery is often necessary for more complex injuries. You will likely need surgery if your fracture is displaced (the bone fragments are out of alignment), if the fracture is unstable and at risk of moving, or if the break involves the joint surface, which needs to be perfectly aligned to prevent future arthritis. Open fractures, where the bone has broken through the skin, always require immediate surgical intervention to clean the wound and repair the bone.
What is the recovery process like after foot and ankle fracture surgery?
Recovery after foot and ankle fracture surgery is a multi-stage process that requires patience. Immediately after surgery, your foot will be placed in a splint or cast, and you will be instructed to keep it elevated to control swelling. It is crucial to avoid putting any weight on the injured foot for several weeks, and you will need to use crutches, a walker, or a knee scooter. As the bone begins to heal, your surgeon will transition you to a walking boot, gradually allowing you to put more weight on the foot. Physical therapy is a vital part of recovery, helping you regain range of motion, strength, and balance. A full recovery and return to all activities can take several months, depending on the severity of the fracture.
How much does foot and ankle fracture surgery cost?
The cost of foot and ankle fracture surgery can vary widely based on the complexity of the fracture, the specific hardware used, your insurance plan, and hospital or surgery center fees. The total cost includes the surgeon’s fee, the anesthesiologist’s fee, and facility charges. Since fracture surgery is a medically necessary procedure to restore function and prevent long-term disability, it is typically covered by most health insurance plans. The staff at Mountainstate Orthopedic Associates is available to help you navigate your insurance benefits and provide an estimate of any potential out-of-pocket expenses before your procedure.
More Questions About Fracture Care
Do I need a referral to see an orthopedic foot and ankle specialist at MOA?
No, a referral is not required to schedule an appointment with our orthopedic specialists. For an acute injury like a fracture, we prioritize direct and timely access to care to ensure you get the treatment you need as soon as possible.
How quickly can I schedule an appointment for foot or ankle fracture surgery?
At Mountainstate Orthopedic Associates, we understand the urgent nature of fracture care. We strive to evaluate patients with acute injuries promptly and can typically schedule appointments much faster than larger hospital systems.
What should I expect during a foot and ankle fracture surgery consultation?
During your consultation, one of our fellowship-trained specialists will perform a thorough physical examination of your injured foot or ankle. They will review your X-rays and any other imaging to determine the exact nature and severity of the fracture. Your surgeon will then discuss the findings with you, explain all treatment options (both surgical and non-surgical), and answer any questions you have to develop a personalized treatment plan.
What are the risks of foot and ankle fracture surgery?
Like any surgery, foot and ankle fracture surgery has potential risks. These include infection, bleeding, blood clots, and complications related to anesthesia. Risks specific to this surgery include nerve or blood vessel damage, problems with bone healing (nonunion or malunion), and the possibility of post-traumatic arthritis. Our experienced surgeons take meticulous care to minimize these risks and will discuss them with you in detail.